1031 Exchange Basics in California

1031 Exchange Like Kind Property in California

Understanding the Fundamentals in California

A 1031 exchange is one of the most powerful tools available to real estate investors in California, allowing you to defer capital gains taxes when selling an investment property in California and reinvesting in another. This strategy enables you to preserve more of your capital, build wealth, and expand your real estate portfolio without the immediate tax burden.

We simplify the exchange process in California, ensuring you stay compliant with IRS regulations while maximizing your investment potential.

What Is a 1031 Exchange in California?

A 1031 exchange, named after Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code, allows investors in California to sell one investment property in California and purchase another of equal or greater value without paying immediate capital gains tax. Instead of cashing out and triggering a taxable event, your proceeds are transferred to a Qualified Intermediary (QI)—like us—who holds the funds until you acquire a replacement property.

By deferring taxes, you can reinvest 100% of your proceeds in California, giving you more purchasing power for your next investment.

Tax benefits of a 1031 exchange in California

Qualified Intermediary holding funds in California

How Does a 1031 Exchange Work in California

Plan Your Exchange in California

Before selling your property in California, consult with a 1031 exchange expert to ensure your transaction is properly structured.

Sell Your Property in California

Once your property sells, the proceeds are transferred to a Qualified Intermediary in California—not directly to you—to maintain compliance with IRS rules.

Identify a Replacement Property in California

Within 45 days of selling your original property in California, you must identify one or more potential replacement properties in writing in California.

Purchase the Replacement Property in California

You have 180 days from the sale of your original property to close on the new property using the proceeds held by your QI in California.

Complete the Exchange & Defer Taxes in California

By following IRS rules and deadlines, you successfully defer capital gains tax and reinvest in a new property in California without losing money to taxes.

Key 1031 Exchange Rules & Requirements in California

Like-Kind Requirement
– The replacement property in California must be of the same nature (investment or business use real estate).
45-Day Identification Rule
– You must identify potential replacement properties within 45 days in California of selling your original property.
180-Day Exchange Rule
– You must close on the new property within 180 days of selling your original property in California.
Qualified Intermediary (QI) Requirement
– Funds must be held by a third-party intermediary in California to ensure IRS compliance.
Equal or Greater Value Rule
– To defer all taxes, the new property in California must be of equal or greater value than the one sold.

Types of 1031 Exchanges in California

1

Forward Exchange (Traditional 1031 Exchange) – Sell your property first, then purchase the replacement property in California within the IRS deadlines.
2

Reverse Exchange – Acquire the replacement property in California before selling the existing one for greater flexibility.
3

Build-to-Suit (Construction Exchange) – Use exchange proceeds to improve or build on the replacement property in California.
4

Delayed Exchange – The most common type, where funds are held by a Qualified Intermediary in California while you find a replacement.
5

Simultaneous Exchange – The sale of the relinquished property and purchase of the replacement occur on the same day.

Benefits of a 1031 Exchange in California

A 1031 exchange allows real estate investors in California to defer capital gains taxes, keeping more money working for them instead of paying it to the IRS. By reinvesting 100% of the proceeds, investors gain more buying power, making it easier to upgrade to a larger or better-performing property in California.

This strategy also helps with portfolio growth and diversification in California, allowing investors to explore new markets, property types in California, or higher-value assets. Additionally, a 1031 exchange offers estate planning benefits, reducing tax burdens for heirs while enabling long-term wealth accumulation without IRS penalties.

Benefits of a 1031 Exchange in California

Common 1031 Exchange Mistakes to Avoid in California

Missing IRS Deadlines – The 45-day and 180-day rules in California are strict.
Touching the Sale Proceeds in California – If you take possession of the funds, you’ll owe taxes.
Choosing an Unqualified Intermediary in California – A trusted QI ensures compliance and security.
Failing to Meet the Like-Kind Rule – Make sure your replacement property qualifies under IRS guidelines.
Not Reinvesting Enough – If you buy a lower-value property, you may owe partial capital gains tax.

Why Choose 1031 Exchange Network in California?

No-Fee Exchanges – Keep more of your money in California—$0 upfront fees and interest-bearing accounts.
Security & Compliance – Funds held in segregated FDIC-insured accounts in California for ultimate safety.
Available 7 Days a Week – Get expert guidance when you need it, from 8 AM–Midnight (EST).
50+ Years of Expertise – Attorneys, CPAs, and exchange specialists in California guiding every transaction.
Nationwide Service – We facilitate 1031 exchanges across all 50 states in California.

Get Started with a 1031 Exchange Today in California

The 1031 exchange process in California doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you have the right partner. We make it seamless, secure, and fee-free so you can focus on growing your real estate investments in California.

Start Your Exchange Schedule a Free Consultation